To ensure your natural stone products provide many years of aesthetics and utility, proper maintenance is essential. This maintenance is easiest and most effective when done regularly.

Dirt and dust can scratch the surface of some stone, so your floor should be vacuumed or dust mopped frequently to remove abrasive agents from the stone surface.

Important: Any cleaning of the stone should be done with products specifically designed for natural stone. Household cleaners (ammonia, glass cleaner, etc.) react adversely with many natural stones and can cause apparent and sometimes irreparable damage.

CLEANING

Natural stone should be cleaned with neutral cleaners, never with acids or bleach, as even a light acidic solution can etch and eventually damage natural stone. Concentrated neutral pH cleaners will clean effectively without affecting existing sealers or wax-type coatings.

The surface of the stone should be dampened with clean water. This will keep the cleaning solution on the surface so it can be effective. Mix your solution per manufacturer recommendations and apply to the stone with a sponge or mop. Allow the solution to sit per manufacturers instructions (usually 3 to 5 minutes), then agitate with a sponge or soft-bristle brush or broom. Mop up dirty solution and buff dry.

SEALING

The longevity of many natural stones can be extended by sealing the stone against damaging liquids and minerals. A sealer reduces the natural absorbency of a stone. We recommend the use of an impregnating sealer, which penetrates into the stone and forms an invisible barrier that is resistant to moisture and stains, while allowing the stone to breath. This type of sealer will not alter the natural look of the stone. We also suggest that you deep clean and re-seal natural stone and grout joints once a year. Highly porous stone and stone placed in high traffic areas may require more frequent cleaning and re-sealing. If you have any questions about the care of your natural stone, please contact us. We want to ensure that our work provides a lifetime of satisfaction.